CRANFORD : A PLAY 




"J/m Matilda Jeiikyns — and the ladies of Cranford — my 
sister-in-law^ Lady Glenmire.^' 



CRANFORD : A PLAT 



A COMEDY IN THREE ACTS MADE 

FROM MRS GASKELnS 

FAMOUS STORY 



By 
MARGUERITE MERINGTON 

Author of " Captain Letiarblair^ " Love fiiids the way^'' etc. 




NEW YORK 

FOX, DUFFIELD 6^ COMPANY 
1905 



IJI 'HARY or .XJNGKESS 

StP 18 iyo5 










Copyright, 1902, by the 
CURTIS PUBLISHING COMPANY. 

Copyright, 1905, by 
FOX, DUFFIELD & COMPANY. 

Published September, 1905. 



SPECIAL COPYRIGHT NOTICE. 

This play is fully protected by copyright, all requirements of the law 
having been complied with. Performances may be given only with the 
written permission of Fox, Duffield & Company, agents for Marguerite 
Merington, owner of the acting rights. 

Extract from the law relating to copyright : 

*' Sec. 4996. Any person publicly performing or representing any 
dramatic or musical composition for which a copyright has been ob- 
tained, without the consent of the proprietor of said dramatic or musical 
composition or his heirs or assigns, shall be hable for damages therefor, 
such damages in all cases to be assessed at such sum not less than one 
hundred dollars for the first and fifty dollars for every subsequent per- 
formance as to the Court shall appear just. If the unlawful perform- 
ance and representation be wilful and not for profit, such person or 
persons shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction be im- 
prisoned for a period not exceeding one year." 



PERSONS IN THE PLAY 



MISS MATILDA JENKYNS (Miss Matty).— ''Meek and unde- 
cided to a fault" . . . " small, gentle, mousey face" . . . "Folks 
looks is often against them . . . not far short of sixty!" . . . 
''We all love Miss Matty . . . I somehow think we are all of 
us better when she is near us!" 

MARY SMITH. — "A well-to-do and happy yomig woman." 

MARTHA. — "A rough, honest-looking country girl, blunt and plain- 
spoken to a fault . . . brisk, well-meaning, but very ignorant." 

MISS POLE. — "A great deal of savoir-faire ... a way of popping 
into all sorts of places to gratify her curiosity ... a way, which 
if she had not looked so very genteel and prim, might have been 
considered impertinent!" "Such people never tread lightly ^ or 
seat themselves without a bump!" 

MRS. FORRESTER. — "A meek, enduring old lady in most things" 
. . . "kind, gentle, shabbily-dressed." Slightly deaf. 

MRS. FITZ-ADAM.— ''A well-to-do widow . . . dressed in rustling 
black silk." Had been "nothing but a country girl." Always 
the largest lady in the room. 

MISS BETTY BARKER.— "iVoi so young as she had been . . . 
dressed finer than any lady in Cranford, wearing out all the 
bonnets and caps and outrageous ribbons which had once formed 
her stock-in-trade." 

THE HON. MRS. JAMIESON.— "Fai and inert, dull, pompous, 
tiresome. . . . Inclined to doze by nature . . . a torpid smile 
... a placid ruminating expression of countenance, not unlike 
a cow^s." 

LADY GLENMIRE. — "A bright little woman of middle age who 

V 



vi PERSONS IN THE PLAY 

had been very pretty, and was even yet very pleasant-looking . . . 
a broad Scotch accent, but a very sweet voice . . . bright, kind, 
sociable, agreeable . . . in dress far removed from the vulgarities 
of wealth!" 
PETER MARMADUKE ARLEY JENKYNS.— "/fzs clothes had 
an out-of-the-way, foreign cut about them . . . his face tanned 
and retanned by the sun." 



Time of the play:— King William the Fourth and Queen 
Adelaide are on the throne. The old Duke of Wellington, 
whenever he rides abroad, is cheered for his famous victories 
over the French. A little maiden named Victoria is being 
trained for her future duties as Queen. 

Costumes:— Of the period, though independent of fashion. 
"What does it signify how we dress here at Cranford where 
everybody knows us! " Ladies who cannot afford Sedan Chairs, 
under the guidance of a lantern-bearer clatter home from 
parties in their pattens, and wearing calashes. "Do you know 
what a calash is? It is a covering worn over caps, not unhke 
the heads fastened on old-fashioned gigs, but not quite so large! " 

Scene : — Miss Matty's drawing-room. Two doors, one to hall, 
the other to bedrooms. Window overlooking street. Grate 
fire. Screen. Clock. Books. Prints and family portraits in 
oils on walls. Solid furniture. Table, side-table, and baize- 
topped card-tables for party. "An old-fashioned piano that 
had been a spinet in its youth." "The china was delicate egg 
shell, the old-fashioned silver glittered with polishing." It re- 
quired some contrivance to keep our two candles of the same 
length, ready to be lighted, and to look as if we burnt two always! 



ACT I 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 



ACT t 

DISCOVERED.— Miss Matty, Mary, and Martha, sur- 
veying their preparations for a tea-party, Miss Matty 
with hands clasped nervously and an anxious ex- 
pression; Mary, -finger on chin, smiling complacently, 
and Martha, with arms akimbo and an admiring grin. 
This pose is held for a jew seconds before they move 
and speak. 

Mary. 

Everything looks as nice as nice can be! 

Miss Matty. 

I'm sure I hope so! Run along, Martha, and put on 
clean cap and apron ready to open the door! 

Martha. 
{Going toward the door.} Very well, ma'am! 

Miss Matty. 

Oh, and Martha — [Martha pauses.\ — You remember 
what I told you about passing the tea to the ladies? 

A 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 



Martha. 



Aye, ma'am! But you said nary a word about the 
gentlemen ! 

Miss Matty. 

The gentlemen, Martha? 

[In a shocked tone.] There will be no gentlemen! 

Martha. 
No, ma'am? I'm disappointed! I like lads best! 

Miss Matty. 

Martha! That is a shocking sentiment on the lips of 
a young woman! 

Martha. 

[Surprised.] Is it, ma'am? I beg pardon, I'm sure, 
but it's the truth! 

Miss Matty, 

Oh, what a pathetic lack of feminine decorum! Martha, 
is it possible that in your last place 3'ou had — [dropping 
her voice] — followers? 

Martha. 

[Fingering her apron coyly.] Please ma'am, I never 
had more than one at a time! 
[Martha goes out] 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 



Miss Matty. 



Shocking, shocking! Where feminine modesty has 
gone to I cannot conceive! [Moving about.] You are 
dressed, Mary love? So am I, all but my cap. I like to 
change that the last thing! [She looks about anxiously.] 
The cards — I must get the cards ready! [She prepares 
a pack by discarding the tens, nines and eights while talk- 
ing.] Dear, dear, I never was so fluttered in all my life, 
except once when — 

Mary. 

But, dear Miss Matty, why? Your tea-bread and 
sponge cake are the perfection of lightness; and your 
china and silver are the oldest and daintiest in Cranf ord ! 

Miss Matty. 

Even so, my dear — It is the uncertainty that is so dis- 
tressing! Will the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson bring her 
sister-in-law. Lady Glenmire? Will the Honourable Mrs. 
Jamieson come herself leaving her sister-in-law Lady 
Glenmire at home? Or will the Honourable Mrs. Jamie- 
son remain at home with her sister-in-law Lady Glenmire? 

Mary. 

Surely you will receive word! Now I am going to 
place the chairs. [Mary places chairs at the card-table.] 
Here is the place of honour for the stranger. Lady Glen- 
mire — 



4 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Matty. 
If she comes, my dear! 

I Mary. 

And a warm corner with a footstool for the Honourable 
Mrs. Jamieson — 

Miss Matty. 

If she comes, my dear! Dear, dear, these chairs — 
however shall I carry them in my head! 

[A double knock is heard at the street-door; Miss 
Matty gives a slight shriek, dropping some cards.] 

Mary. 

Perhaps that is a note — Why, dear Miss Matty, you're 
all of a tremble! 

Miss Matty. 

[Picking up the cards.] It is nothing, my dear! Only 
for a moment I thought it might be the robbers! 

Mary. 
[Puzzled.] The— robbers? 

Miss Matty. 

There! I meant to have kept it from you! And indeed 
Lady Glenmire quite drove them from my head! But — 
mind, there may be nothing in it ! — But there is a rumour 
that robbers have been seen, bold as lions, in Cranford! 



CRANFORD: A PLAY 



Mary. 



[Exclaiming, impressed.] Even so, they would hardly 
come while it is still daylight, and by the front door! 

Miss Pole. 

[Outside, in the hall.] Miss Matilda Jenkyns — Pardon 
the informality — 

Miss Matt^. 
Miss Pole! Light the candles, Mary! — My cap — 

Miss Pole. 

[Entering.] Never mind your dress, I beg! I am in 
advance of the hour! I just stepped in to ask — [Sits, 
gasping for breath.] [Mary, who has lit both candles, puts 
one out.] — My Lizzy heard from your Martha that you 
are expecting Lady Glenmire? 

Miss Matty. 

If only I knew myself! Hearing that Lady Glenmire 
had come unexpectedly to stay with her sister-in-law, 
the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson, I called this morning; 
but as the ladies were out driving I left a note for Mrs. 
Jamieson, begging to include in my invitation her sister- 
in-law, Lady Glenmire! 

Miss Pole. 

[Reflectively.] Let me see — Miss Matty, may I look at 
your Peerage? [Miss Pole goes to the bookshelf, without 



6 CRANFORD ; A PLAY 

waiting for permission^ and takes down the Peerage.] It is 
just as well to know exactly who she is! [Turning over 
the leaves.] 

Miss Matty. 

My dear Miss Pole! Lady Glenmire is sister-in-law to 
the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson! 

Miss Pole. 
That is a secondary matter! 

Miss Matty. 

[Thromng up her hands.] Fancy anything being a 
secondary matter to the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson! 

Miss Pole. 

[Having found her place in the Peerage, reads] "Fifth 
daughter of Mr. Dunstafnane Campbell." — High-sounding 
name that! — The widow of a peer! A very pretty com- 
pliment to Cranford! 

Mary. 

[Looking out of the vnndow.] Here comes the Honour- 
able Mrs. Jamieson's man, Mulliner, now, with the answer! 

Miss Matty. 

[Reprovingly.] My dear — Looking out of the window 
— Not genteel! — Are you sure it's Mulliner? [Going to 
the loindow.] [A loud double knock is heard.] Ah, yes, 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 7 

that is Mulliner's knock! He is so filled with his con- 
descension in coming to live at Cranford that except in 
the case of County families he ignores the back door! 
[Martha enters with a three-cornered note on a tray.] 

Martha. 

[Giving the note to Miss Matty.] The grandest gen- 
tleman brought it, ma'am; dressed mainly in buttons 
was he, and a powdered wig! 

Miss Matty. 

[Opening the note.] Dear, dear — my spectacles! — Light 
the other candle, Mary! — Put the other out, my dear, to 
keep them even. 

[Mary does so, while Miss Matty reads the note.] 

Miss Pole. 

[To Martha.] Martha, you were in church yesterday! 
The lady in the pew with Mrs. Jamieson — what is she like? 

Martha. 

Her, ma'am? I seed her, but I didn't take much 
notice! I thought you ladies would more like to know 
how young Mrs. Jones the butcher's wife would look, her 
being a bride! 

Miss Pole. 
Good gracious me! As if we cared about a Mrs. Jones! 



8 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Martha. 

An old black silk and a shepherd's plaid cloak the 
little lady had on, ma'am — bright eyes, a pleasant sharp 
face — and a way of nipping up her skirts! A stirring 
sort of body, ma'am, more like the landlady of The Coach 
and Horses nor anyone! 

Miss Matty. 
[Looking up.] Martha, that is not respectful! 

Martha. 

Isn't it, ma'am? I beg pardon, I'm sure! But it's 
true! [Martha goes out] 

Miss Pole. 

Delightful description! Most genteel, and evidently far 
from vulgarly affluent ! [Miss Matty, who has been spell- 
ing out the note, drops it with an exclamation of disappoints 
ment.] What! You don't mean ? 

Miss Matty. 

[Nodding sadly.] The Honourable Mrs. Jamieson re- 
grets ! 

Miss Pole. 

[Closing the Peerage with a bang.] Well, I declare! 
Refusing you, the late rector's daughter, whose brother 
Peter was godson to Sir Peter Arley, who might have been 
a viscount if five brothers and thirteen nephews had died 



CRANFORD: A PLAY 9 

before he did! I suppose she wants her sister-in-law to 
think she associates only with County families ! But pray 
who is this Lady Glenmire that she should be kept under 
a glass case ! Fifth daughter of a Mr. Something-or-other 
Campbell ! Widow of a Scotch peer who never sat in the 
House of Lords — a sort of Lord-and-no-Lord business at 

best — and as poor as Job ! [Stopping, gasping for 

breath.] 

[Mary has picked up the note meanwhile and read it.] 

Miss Matty. 

Don't burn it, love! Keep it for spills — candle-lighters, 
you know! 

Mary. 
But — the postscript ! In her own writing — [Waving the 
note.] Lady Glenmire is delighted to accept! 

Miss Matty and Miss Pole. 

To accept! 

Miss Pole. 

[Wagging her head sagely.] I felt we had not come to 
the end of it! Blue blood, you know! — By the way, 
Miss Matty — Hardly a fit subject for a young person! 
[Looking meaningly at Mary.] 

Mary. 

I'll go fill the decanters with fresh cowslip wine! 
[Taking the decanters from the side-table and going 
to the door.] 



10 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Matty. 

Don't waste the dregs, love: save them for the poor! 
[Mary laughs, and goes out.] 

Miss Pole. 

You'll think me strangely ignorant, but — How do you 
address Lady Glenmire? Do you say ''Your Ladyship" 
where you would say ''You" to a common person, and 
"My Lady" instead of "Ma'am?" 

Miss Matty. 

[Puzzled, takes off her spectacles.] Dear, dear! If sister 
Deborah were living she would know. For she once 
danced with a lord, and when my dear father's eyesight 
failed him, wrote a letter for him to the Bishop! 

Miss Pole. 

There may be some article in the encyclopedia on 
Little Etiquettes! [She takes a book from the shelf, and 
consults it.] 

Miss Matty. 
My Lady — Dear, dear, I haven't been so fluttered since 
my cousin Major Jenkyns spent a night here. For weeks 
beforehand I lay awake at nights wondering whether I 
ought to provide razors for his dressing-room! Finally I 
enquired of the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson, since she, 
being a widow, would naturally be an authority! 



CRANFORD: A PLAY 11 

Miss Pole. 

[Not finding what she wants, closes the book with a hang.] 
Mrs. Forrester would know, she having been born a 
Tyrrell of the family that accidentally shot King William 
Rufus 

Mary. 

[Outside, in the hall] Miss Matty, here is Mrs. For- 
rester! 

Miss Matty and Miss Pole. 
How providential! [Mrs. Forrester enters in some 
agitation.] 

Miss Matty. 

Mrs. Forrester. 

My dear Miss Matilda Jenkyns — I am unreasonably 
early — but my Jenny learned from Miss Pole's Lizzy who 
had it from your Martha that you are expecting Lady 
Glenmire, and — My Lady — Your Ladyship — What is the 
approved genteel form? [Miss Pole and Miss Matty 
exchange glances.] 

Miss Pole. 

We counted on your knowing, you having been born a 
Tyrrell! 



.r^ 



12 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Mrs. Forrester. 
But that was nearly a thousand years ago — I mean, 
when we accidentally shot royalty! 

Mary. 

[At the door.] Miss Matty. Mrs. Fitz-Adam would like 
to ask you something! [Enter Mrs. Fitz- Adams. She 
curtseys low.] 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

Miss Matilda Jenkyns! Ladies! Pray pardon this in- 
trusion! But my Rosy learned from Mrs. Forrester's 
Jenny who had it from Miss Pole's Lizzy who got it direct 
from Martha that you are expecting Lady Glenmire. Now 
the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson shows her Honourableness 
by never seeing me, though I am always the largest body 
in the room, and the mere thought of a Lady — I mean, 
one beginning with a Capital — throws me into a cold 
sweat! [Mrs. Fitz-Adam ivipes her hrow, while the ladies 
shudder.] O, dear Miss Matty, do let me off! Remem- 
ber that my parents were but plain farmer-folk! 

Miss Matty. 

But, my dear Mrs. Fitz-Adam, you have done your best 
to live that down! Have you not taken a house that 
once was inhabited by the spinster daughter of an Earl! 
[Mrs. Forrester and Miss Pole nod assent.] 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

Still, I began as Molly Hoggins, carrying butter and eggs 
to market! 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 13 



Mrs. Forrester. 



But — you sunk the butter and eggs in the married 
estate! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
But, ma'am, Fitz-Adam was only 



Mrs. Forrester. 

[Interrupting.] Fitz-Adam is a good name. Fitz 
means "child of." Your husband must have been child 
of something! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
Indeed, ma'am, he was 

Mrs. Forrester. 
Child of Adam, possibly! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
I assure you, ma'am, Fitz-Adam was 



Mrs. Forrester. 

[With finality.] He was Fitz-Adam! Having been 
born a Tyrrell I ought to know! 

[Mrs. Fitz-Adam mpes her broWy despairingly.] 

Miss Pole. 

You see if you withdraw on her account it will give 
Lady Glenmire the erroneous impression that Cranford 



14 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

is unaccustomed to the Peerage! [Miss Matty and 
Mrs. Forrester assent] 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

As you will, ladies! — And, speaking of the Peerage, 
how does one address Lady Glenmire! [Consternation 
among the other ladies.] You, Mrs. Forrester, having been 
born a Tyrrell 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[With her hand to her ear.] Eh? I can't hear a word 
you say! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
Miss Matty; Miss Pole — How 

Miss Pole. 

[Sharply.] My good soul, when will you learn the im- 
propriety of asking questions! [Mrs. Fitz-Adam shakes 
her head despairingly, and goes and sits in a corner, wiping 
her hrow.] 

Mary. 

[At the door.] Miss Matty — Miss Betty Barker wants 
to ask you something! [Miss Matty, Miss Pole, and 
Mrs. Forrester exchange agitated glances.] 

Miss Pole. 

A retired milliner! She must not suspect our Uttle 
difficulty. 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 15 

Mrs. Forrester and Miss Matty. 

Not for the world ! Hush ! [Miss Betty Barker enters y 
and makes a swimming curtsey. The ladies respond.] 

Miss Betty. 

Ladies ! Pardon my coming before the designated hour, 
Miss Matilda Jenkyns. Believe me I deemed it a great 
honour to be invited by you, the late rector's daughter, 
to meet the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson. [Curtseys, and 
Mrs. Fitz-Adam rises from her corner and curtseys.] Also 
Mrs. Forrester, born a Tyrrell, and whose alliance we 
never can forget with the Biggses of Bigelow Hall I 
[Curtseys to Mrs. Forrester, who bows in return.] Like- 
wise Miss Pole — [Curtseys to Miss Pole]. 

Miss Pole. 

My good Miss Betty Barker, the Cranford ladies of 
good family being widows and spinsters, if we did not 
relax our exclusive social barriers we should have no 
society at all! [Miss Betty curtseys acknowledgment.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 

And to your credit, Miss Betty Barker, you never made 
caps and bonnets for anyone without a pedigree! [Miss 
Betty curtseys acknowledgment.] 

Miss Matty. 
And since retiring you have set up a cow — always a 



16 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

mark of respectability in a single woman! [The other 
ladies assent. Miss Betty curtseys.] 

Miss Betty. 

Granted, ladies! But I learn from my Peggy who had 
it from Mrs. Fitz-Adam's Rosy who gathered it from 
Mrs. Forrester's Jenny who gleaned it from Miss Pole's 
Lizzy who had it direct from Martha, that you are ex- 
pecting Lady Glenmire! I venture accordingly to sug- 
gest that you may wish to be relieved of my unpatrician 
presence. I have brought this little note, exchanging 
my flattered "happy to accept" for my "regrets at being 
obliged to decline." [Presents her note to Miss Matty 
mth a curtsey.] 

Miss Matty. 

My dear Miss Betty, your delicacy of feeling does you 

infinite credit! [The other ladies murmur assent.] But 

[Mary enters with the decanters, which she places on the 
side-table.] Mary, my love, this note — Spills — candle- 
lighters, you know! 

[Mary takes the note and makes a spill of it.] 

Miss Betty. 
[Curtseying swimmingly.] I thank you. Pray, Miss 
Matilda Jenkyns, be assured that to mark the social dif- 
ference between myself and the ^lite, I shall sit next the 
door, on the extreme edge of my chair ! Although a retired 
milliner I am no democrat, and understand distinctions of 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 17 

rank! [Ladies murmur approval.] There is another matter 
— if my presumption may be excused — About Lady Glen- 
mire — [Ladies exchange agitated glances.] Being from Scot- 
land the change of climate may be trying to Lady Glen- 
mire! Accordingly I took the liberty of bringing a little 
offering of home-made cordial — [Miss Betty fumbles in 
her reticule and produces a bottle of cordial.] With your 
permission I will place it in Martha's charge! As I used 
to say to Lady Arley when fitting Daps for her ladyship 

Ladies. 
[AsidCj relieved.] Her ladyship! 

Miss Betty. 
Climate— we must take climate as well as complexion 
into account; your Ladyship! [Miss Betty goes out with 
her bottle.] 

Ladies. 
[Aside, delighted.] Your Ladyship! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
Her Ladyship! Your Ladyship! 

Miss Pole. 
[Sharply.] Good gracious me, what did you suppose 
it was! 

[A loud knock is heard oidside.] 

Ladies. 
[Fluttered.] Here they are! 



18 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Matty. 

Her cap — my Ladyship goodness gracious me! 

[She runs hastily into the bedroom, and returns im- 
mediately, having put on a fine cap. Meanwhile 
the other ladies remove their calashes, assisted by 
Mary.] 

Miss Pole. 

Mary, love, just count my brooches. There should be 
seven — the weeping-willow done in hair, and the butter- 
fly made out of Scotch pebbles in my cap! Thanks, love! 
I feel positively undressed without a variety of brooches 
about my person! 

Martha. 

[At the door, announces.] The Honourable Mrs. Jamie- 
son, and Lady Glenmire. 

[Mrs. Jamieson, carrying Carlo, and Lady Glen- 
mire, enter, followed by Miss Betty. The ladies 
curtsey ceremoniously.] 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

[Introducing.] Miss Matilda Jenkyns — and the Ladies 
of Cranford — my sister-in-law Lady Glenmire! [All 
curtsey again.] 

Lady Glenmire. 

I'm vera pleased to meet ye! [Murmur of approval 
from all.] 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 19 

Miss Betty. 



How affable! 



Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

What condescension! 

[When calashes, etc., are removed Mary carries them 
into Miss Matty's bedroom, while the Ladies 
take their places.] 

Miss Pole. 

[In an undertone to Mrs. Forrester.] Ten pounds 
would purchase every stitch she has on, lace and all! 

Mrs. Forrester. 
[Hana to ear.] Eh? 

Miss Pole. 

[In a louder tone.] I said, don't you dote on the Scotch 
accent! 

[Martha enters with a tray, lohich she passes among 
the ladies.] 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

I am certain you will all excuse me if I give poor dumb 
Carlo his tea first! The dear little fellow — see him wag 
his tail! He is such a prodigy of intelligence — he knows 
cream quite well, and refuses milk absolutely! 

[She empties the cream jug into a saucer for Carlo. 
The ladies look their disappointment.] 



20 CRANFORD: A PLAY 

Miss Pole. 

[Aside.] When it comes to preferring cream to milk 
I am as intelligent a^ Carlo ! 

Miss Matty. 

[In an undertone to Miss Pole and Mrs. Forrester.] 
Please speak to My Ladyship! I should feel so hot and 
foolish the first time! — Besides, what can I talk about 
that might interest her! — Among ourselves, as it is pre- 
serving time, we should naturally discuss the recent rise 
in sugar! But does the Peerage eat preserves, much less 
know how they are made? [Miss Pole and Mrs. For- 
rester shake their heads.] Mrs. Forrester, ma'am — you, 
as a Tyrrell 

Mrs. Forrester. 

Unfortunately I did not receive the St. James's Chroni- 
cle in time to coach up the Court news! 

Miss Pole. 

[Derisively.] Oh, these timid souls! Ahem! Has Your 
Ladyship been to Court lately? 

[The other ladies murmur their admiration.] 

Lady Glenmire. 

I never was at Court in a' my life! [Well-bred sensa- 
tion.] 

Ye see, my gude man didna sit i' the House o' Lairds! 
[Well-bred sensation.] 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 21 

Miss Pole. 

He naturally disdained such corrupting associations! 
Though I own I was hoping for news of the dear Queen! 

Lady Glenmire. 

Except for two short visits to London I never have 
been far from Edinboro! 

Miss Matty. 

A most genteel spot for a place of residence, Edinboro ! 
More select, no doubt, than London! I once heard a 
little song about it ! No, not quite about it, though 'twas 
within a mile of it! [The ladies murmur interestedly.] 

Lady Glenmire. 

[Looking hopefully round the group.] Ye'll have been 
in Edinboro, maybe? 

[The ladies shake their heads dejectedly.] 

Miss Pole. 

N-not exactly! But I had an uncle who once passed 
a night there! [The ladies are enraptured.] 

Miss Betty. 

What an extraordinary coincidence! 

[Martha has collected the cups and sau^cers, and now 
carries the tray away.] 



22 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Matty. 

[Rising.] Shall we make up a pool at Preference? 
[Lady Glenmire, Mrs. Forrester and Miss Pole 
seat themselves at a card-table luith alacrity.] 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

[With a gesture declining Miss Matty's invitation.^ 
Thanks, no! I will remain here out of the draught! 

Miss Betty. 

[Declining Miss Matty's invitation.] Madam, if I have 
a passion it is for looking on at cards ! [Miss Matty, ac- 
cordingly, takes the fourth place at the card-table.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Explaining to Lady Glenmire.] We generally play 
ten tours, a fish costing sixpence! 

[Lady Glenmire nods assent, and each player places 
a counter in front of her.] 

Miss Betty. 

[Going over to Mrs. Jamieson.] Allow me to give your 
sweet Carlo his nap, Madam! 

Mrs. Jarheson. 
[Giving Carlo to her.] You don't mind? 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 23 

Miss Betty. 

Madam, if I have a weakness it is for dogs! 

[She goes hack to her seat near the door. Mary, by 
signs, suggests to her and Mrs. Fitz-Adam that 
they engage in a game of cribbage, getting out the 
cribbage board, etc.. They assent. While Mrs. 
Fitz-Adam shuffles the cards Miss Betty, still 
holding Carlo, darts into the hall, returning im- 
mediately with some large hooks.'] 

Miss Matty. 

[At the card-table has dealt a card, face up, to each player.] 
Miss Pole's deal! 

Miss Betty. 

[Presenting her hooks to Mary.] Young people like 
pictures, I brought you some fashions, my dear! You 
will find them quite recent; not more than ten or twelve 
years old! [Mary takes the books with a little curtsey, and 
sits on a low chair turning over the leaves. Miss Betty and 
Mrs. Fitz-Adam play cribbage, the dealer dealing six cards 
to each, etc. Miss Pole has dealt ten cards to each player, 
by threes and fours, dealing to her right. The games pro- 
ceed.] 

Miss Matty. 

[On Miss Pole's right, having examined her hand.] 
Not a matadore in my hand! I pass! 



24 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Lady Glenmire. 
I ask leave! 

j Mrs. Forrester. 

I offer — sans appeler! 

Lady Glenmire. 

Now that raises my fighting blude — Scots wha^ hae, 
ye know! — I'm Omber! 

All the Ladies. 

[Admiringly.] How spirited! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

I declare, Miss Betty, the thought of my being in the 
presence of the Peerage, throws me into a cold sweat! 
[Wipes her brow.] 

Miss Betty. 

My dear lady ! In the presence of the Peerage one does 
not sweat! One perspires! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[Looking at the turn-up.] Ah, Jack's up! 

Miss Betty. 

[Shuddering.] Not Jack, but Knave! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[Marking her score.] Jack or Knave, a fig for his heels! 
[Miss Betty shudders.] 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 25 

Lady Glenmire. 
Now, mark ye, that's my Jock! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
Lady Glenmire says Jock, which is Scotch for Jack! 

Miss Betty. 

Only the Peerage can afford to be so intimate with a 
Knave as to call him Jack! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[Marking her score.] Fifteen four, and a royal flush — . 
How I do love a good game of Noddy! 

Miss Betty. 
[Shudders . ] Noddy ! 

Miss Matty. 

I hold Spadille! — Perhaps your Ladyship would have 
preferred some other game! 

Lady Glenmire. 

No, no! All games of cards are gude, though some are 
better! Myself I play everything, from Scots' Whist to 
Snip, Snap, Snore 'em! [The ladies murmur ^ delighted.] 

Miss Betty. 
How affable! 



26 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

[Opening her eyes, and smiling.] High spirits — High 

rank — High . 

[She drops off to sleep with a slight snore,^ 

Miss Matty. 
[Startled.'] What was that! 

Miss Betty. 

The Honourable Mrs. Jamieson has fallen asleep! She 
could not pay our society a greater compliment I 

[Martha enters quietly with a coal-scuttle and puts 
coals on the fire.] 

Lady Glenmire. 

I have a sentimental streak ! I play in hearts ! [Ladies 
murmur, delighted.] The Cranford ladies are so delight- 
ful, what must the Cranford gentlemen be! [Ladies give 
a well-bred gasp.] 

Miss Pole. 

It is a source of unfailing congratulation to the Cran- 
ford ladies that there are no gentlemen in Cranford! 
[Ladies murmur assent.] 

Lady Glenmire. 

[Laughing.] Now I'm disappointed! I'm a' for the 
lads myself. 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 27 

Ladies. 
[Amused and charmed.] What spirits! 

Miss Betty. 

^ How affable! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
Such condescension ! 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

[Opening her eyes.] High spirits — High rank — High ! 

[She drops off to sleep.] 

[Martha starts to guffaw with delight at Lady Glen- 
mire's speech, hut checked by a reproving glance 
from Miss Matty, stuffs her apron in her mouth 
and runs from the room.] 

Miss Pole. 

For settling all questions without unnecessary argu- 
. ment the Cranford ladies are sufficient unto themselves, 
and in matters in which females of the clinging type re- 
quire masculine protection 

[A loud crash is heard outside. Ladies shriek, Miss 
Pole the loudept.] 

Miss Betty. 
Ladies, I beg! Consider Carlo! 

Miss Matty. 
[Clinging to the chair-hack.] But — it may be robbers! 



28 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Mrs. Forrester. 
[In an attitude of terror.] Or a ghost! 

Miss Betty. 

Even so, the aristocratic slumbers of Carlo and the 

Honourable Mrs. Jamieson 

[At the mention of Mrs. Jamieson, Mrs. Fitz-Adam 
gets up from under the table whither she had re- 
treated, to curtsey, then returns to cover. Slight 
snore from Mrs. Jamieson.] 

Mary. 

I know! It's the fire-irons! [Ladies echo "Fire-irons," 
puzzled.] Miss Matty, you stacked them against the back 
door, to warn us in case the robbers should get in that 
way! — I'll go see! 

[She runs from the roo7n.] 

Miss Matty. 

Your Ladyship will think us foolish to be so fluttered 
— but there have been rumours 

Miss Pole. 

Rumours! When my Lizzy heard that a cold neck of 
mutton had been stolen from our surgeon Mr. Hoggins! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[Coming forth.] Ladies — Tom Hoggins — my own 
brother — swears it was the cat! 



CRANFORD: A PLAY 29 

Miss Pole. 
Of course he swears it! He is a man! 

Miss Matty. 

[Hands up in amazement] Well, well! A neck of 
mutton! Cold, did you say? Such a scandal has not 
been known in Cranford since the conjuror Signor 
Brunoni took a live rabbit out of the rector's hat! 

Mrs. Forrester. 

It is my belief that conjuror is at the bottom of the 
mischief! He is a foreigner — and if a foreigner surely 
a Frenchman — and being a Frenchman naturally a spy, 
come to find out the weak places in our coast defences! 
[The ladies murmur, interestedly.] Either that or a 
ghost ! [Impressively.] 

Miss Pole. 

[Teeth chattering.] A g — g — ghost! My dear Mrs. 
Forrester! — I can prove to you by an article in the 
Encyclopedia [Going to the book-shelf.] that ghosts are 
but spectral illusions! 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[With warmth.] Ghosts are part of my religion! And 
as the daughter of a Tyrrell and the widow of an army 
officer I think I may be said to know what to be fright- 
ened at, and what not ! [Ladies murmur assent.] 



30 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Lady Glenmire. 

[Who has been silently amused.] Ought we not to be 
making some preparation to receive these guests! 

Miss Pole. 

Leave them to me ! All this while I have been thinking 
out a plan ! For the purposes of identification they should 
be branded ! [Goes to the fireplace.] With the permission 
of Miss Matilda Jenkyns I will heat her poker red-hot — It 
can be restored to blackness later by being dipped in 
grease! [She seizes the poker.] Let them come forth 
b-b-boldly into the light like men! [Teeth chattering.] 
[The ladies murmur admiringly. Mary enters, fol- 
lowed by Martha. The ladies start, and Miss 
Pole drops the poker.] 

Mary. 
It is all right, Miss Matty! 

Martha. 

[Toying with the corner of her apron.^ Please, ma'am, 
it was me! 

Miss Matty. 
You, Martha? 

Martha. 
A-shutting the door in Jem Hearn's face! 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 31 

Miss Matty. 
Jem Hearn! What is a Jem Hearn? 

Martha. 

Please, ma'am, he's a joiner, ma'am, six-foot-one in 
his stocking feet, and making three-and-sixpence a day — 
a steady young man, fit for any girl! But I gave you 
my word I'd have no followers, though it's wasting an 
opportunity, such a capable kitchen it is, full of dark 
corners ! Many a girl would have 'em unbeknownst to 
the missus — but I gave you my word, and I'll stick to it, 
though it do go to my heart to do it! [She goes out 
hastily, half -crying.] 

Miss Matty. 

[Sadly.] What a painful lack of maidenly reserve! 
[Sits.] We might finish our game! [The ladies sit.] 

Miss Pole. 
You see the folly of vain alarms! 

Mrs. Forrester. 
I hold Manille! 

Miss Pole. 
[To Lady Glenmire.] Basto, ma'am! 

Lady Glenmire. 
[Laughing.] Basted unmercifully! [Lays coin on table.] 



32 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

And bang goes saxpence as we Scots say! [Rising.] Ah, 
well, unlucky at cards, lucky in love! [Ladies delighted.^ 



What spirits! 



How affable! 



Miss Matty. 



Miss Betty. 



Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
Such condescension! 

[A very loud double-knock is heard. The ladies 
shriek.] 

Miss Betty. 

Ladies, I beg! The aristocratic slumbers of the Hon- 
ourable Mrs. Jamieson and the Honourable Mrs. Jamie- 
son's Carlo 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

[Waking vnth a slight snore.] It is my man Mulliner! — 
I closed my eyes on account of the light, but all the while 
I have been listening with great interest to your amusing 
and agreeable conversation! [Rises.] 

Martha. 

[At the door.] Miss Bdtty Barker's Peggy, Mrs. Fitz- 
Adam's Rosy, Miss Pole's Lizzy, Mrs. Forrester's Jenny, 
with lanterns. The Sedan Chair and the Honourable 
Mrs. Jamieson's maid for the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson's 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 33 

dog Carlo, and the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson's man 
Mulliner with the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson's carriage 
for Lady Glenmire and the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson! 
[At Mulliner' s knock Mary fetches wra'ps and calashes and 
assists the ladies to cloak themselves. 1 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

[To Lady Glenmire.] Come, my dear. Mulliner does 
not like to be kept waiting! — Don't you find it very un- 
pleasant walking? [To the other ladies. '\ 

Miss Pole. 
No, indeed! Capital exercise! 

Mrs. Forrester. 
Such a refreshment after the excitement of a party! 

Miss Betty. 

Such an opportunity to study astronomy! [Martha 
enters with a tray of small glasses of cordial, which she passes 
to the ladies.] 

Miss Matty. 

Before you go, ladies, — our good Miss Betty Barker 
offers us — 

Miss Betty. 

Just a leetle, leetle drop to keep out the cold, ladies! — 
A homemade cordial! The lower classes call it cherry- 
brandy ! 



34 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Ladies. 
[Declining.] Oh, I couldn't — really I couldn't! 

Lady Glenmire. 

[Taking a glass.] A toast! A toast! [The others fol- 
low her example.] Here's to the Cranford Ladies and 
New Lang Syne! 

[Drinks. Ladies murmur admiration, and drink, 
then set down emptied glasses, coughing and 
sputtering discreetly.] 

Miss Pole. 
It's very hot! I believe there's spirit in it! 

Miss Betty. 

Only a leetle drop to make it keep! You know we put 
brandy-paper over preserves to preserve them! I have 
known ladies of refined sensibilities feel quite tipsy from 
eating damson tart! 

[Ladies curtsey, taking leave and departing in the 
order of their rank.] 

Lady Glenmire. 
A bonny evening ! Gude night to ye ! [Ladies respond.] 

Miss Betty. 

The Peerage is affability itself — and the Honourable 
Mrs. Jamieson is always such sparkling company! 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 35 

Miss Pole. 

Those of us who walk had better keep together, con- 
sidering the timid nature of Mrs. Forrester! 

[The street-door is heard to close after them. There 
is a final chorus of good-nights.] 

Mary. 
It went off beautifully! 

Miss Matty. 

[Blowing out the candles.] I think the ladies enjoyed 
themselves! [She looks at the clock.] Half-past nine! 
Such gaiety has not been known in Cranford since Womb- 
well's lions were exhibited when one of them ate off a 
little child's arm! [Martha enters, goes to the window, 
and bolts it.] Bolt it fast, Martha! 

[Miss Matty kneels down, takes a toy hall from her 
pocket, and rolls it under chairs, sofa, table. 
Mary and Martha exclaim, wondering.] 

Mary. 
Miss Matty! Is that some new game? 

Miss Matty. 

[On her knees.] A precaution, my dear! All my life 
I have dreaded being caught by my last leg when getting 



36 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

into bed! When younger and more active I used to take 
a flying leap! — You see if the ball comes out on the 
other side I know that there is no one concealed be- 
neath ! 

[Mary and Martha exclaim with admiratiom. A 
lovd knock is heard, at which all exclaim.] 

Martha. 
It^s them dratted robbers! 

Miss Matty. 

Martha, what an ungenteel expression! — Open the 
window! [Martha opens the window, Miss Matty runs 
to the window with a hassock in her hands.] Now if it is 
a man with a black crepe mask over his face, when he 
looks up I shall drop this on his head! [Calls out of the 
window.] Who's there! 

Miss Pole. 
[Outside, under the vnndow.] It's I! Do let me in! 

Miss Matty. 

[Drops the hassock on the floor in amazement] Miss 
Pole! — Run, Martha! [Martha runs from the room.] By 
the way, Mary, my dear; don't mention my little precau- 
tion! — Miss Pole has so much courage! 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 37 

Miss Pole. 

[Enters, gasping for breath, carrying a small basket in 
one hand, and a man's hat in the other.] I packed up my 
silver and ran over, sending my Lizzy to sleep with Mrs. 
Forrester's Jenny. [She sets the basket firmly on the table.] 
If your house is attacked it will be just as well for me to 
be on hand ! 

Miss Matty. 
How thoughtful! 

Miss Pole. 
[At window, shrieks.] There's a man now, watching 
the house! 

[She gets behind the screen.] 

Martha. 

[Appearing at the door.] Please, ma'am, it's my Jem 
Hearn! He says if he might come to see me once a week 
he could keep an eye on the house!] 

Miss Matty. 
[Considering.] Hm! Marriage is a great risk, Martha! 

Martha. 
Aye, ma'am! But robbers is worser! 

\ Miss Matty. 

[Relenting.] Er — give the young man this half-crown, 
Martha! 

[She gives a coin to Martha.] 



38 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Martha. 

[Joyfully.] He shall put in it the Savings Bank against 
I name the day! 

[Martha runs from the room.] 

Miss Pole. 

[Emerging from behind the screen, fans herself with the 
man^s hat.] You see the folly of vain alarms! — Oh, this 
hat — I stopped at the surgery to borrow it of Mr. Hoggins! 
Knowing your timid nature I thought if you had it hang- 
ing in the hall, when the robbers came we could call 
Charles, Henry, James, as if to a retinue of men-servants! 

Miss Matty. 

There will be a very pleasant sense of protection in 
having a man's hat on the premises! I only hope it is 
not improper, as so many pleasant things are! 

[A loud kiss is heard in the hall. All shriek, Miss 
Pole the loudest.] 

Miss Pole. 

That strange, uncanny sound! [A louder kiss is heard.] 
There it is again! 

Miss Matty. 
[In a horrified tone.] I do believe it's — Martha — kissing! 



CRANFORD: A PLAY 39 

Miss Pole. 

[Waving Mr. Hoggin's hat, shocked.] Kissing? The 
idea! — Kissing what? A man, I suppose! 

Mary. 

[Laughing, peeping from the door.] Yes — I see their 
shadows — it's a man! 

TABLEAU: Miss Matty throws her hands up horri- 
fied, while Miss Pole hides her face in Mr. Hoggins' 
hat. 



ACT II 



ACT II 

DISCOVERED. — Mary and Martha, kneeling on the 
floor, pins in mouth, are pinning over the carpet path- 
ways made of newspapers stitched together, leading 
from the door to the chairs. A knock heard, smothered. 

Mary. 
[Looking up and listening.] Was that a knock? 

Martha. 

[Rising, taking pins from her mouth and sticking them 
in the front of her dress.] Aye, Miss. It sounds queer, 
because Missus telled me to muffle the knocker in an old 
glove, so as not to disturb the poor dear conjuring gentle- 
man's broken leg! 

[She goes out hastily.] 

Mary. 

[Speaking to herself.] Callers, no doubt, to enquire 
after the poor sufferer! Everyone is so kind! [Rising 
and surveying the room.] There! I think Miss Matty's 
new carpet is fully protected! — Oh, there's a little sun- 
beam that I have to ward off with the St. James's 

43 



44 CRANFORD : A PLAY 






Chronicle! [Mary lays another newspaper down in front 

of the window.] 

PVIRS. Fitz-Adam, Miss Betty Barker, Miss Pole, 
and Mrs. Forrester, enter, one after another. 
All wear morning dress, bonnets instead of caps 
and calashes. Each carries a basket or a package.] 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

Good-morning, Mary, my dear. I have come to en- 
quire 

Miss Betty. 

[Speaking as she enters, her words overlapping Mrs. 
Fitz-Adam's.] Good-morning, my dear, and how is 

Miss Pole. 

[Speaking while still in the hall] Well, Mary! I just 

stepped in to 

[Enters, gasping for breath.^ 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Entering.] Well, my dear! How is the poor, dear 

[Breaks off, seeing the other ladies.] 

Miss Pole, Mrs. Fitz-Adam, Miss Betty. 
[Curtseying to Mrs. Forrester.] After you, ma'am! 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Acknowledging their courtesy by a curtsey.] The patient 
— the poor, dear, conjuring gentleman, is he better? 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 45 

The Other Ladies. 
Yes, yes! Is he better? 

Mary. 

Oh, so much better, thank-you! 

[The ladies murmur their relief and pleasure.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 

My Jenny learned from Martha that his real name is 
not Signor Brunoni, but Sam Brown, and that he is not, as 
we did him the injustice to suppose, a foreign Frenchman, 
but an English soldier born and bred, — [Mary nods 
corroboration.] — which circumstance makes it possible for 
Cranford socially to recognise his broken leg! [The 
ladies murmur assent] There has been a receipt for 
bread-jelly in the Tyrrell family ever since we accidentally 
shot royalty. The dish has been partaken of with relish 
in times of convalescence by my kinsmen the Biggses of 
Bigelow Hall! I have left this receipt in my will to 
Miss Matilda Jenkyns, to be treated as an heirloom, or 
made public, as she and my executors may think fit — 
[Ladies murmur, impressed.] Meanwhile — a bowlful for 

the poor patient 

[She gives a dainty howl to Mary, who receives it 
gratefully while Mrs. Fitz-Adam curtseys and 
Miss Betty, touched, wipes her eyes.] 

Miss Pole. 
The accident, my Lizzy learned from Martha, was 



46 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

caused by a runaway horse! You could have knocked 
me down with a feather when I heard of a runaway horse 
in Cranford. [The ladies assent.] — Well, it came of being 
driven by a man! [They smile, ajnused.] I thought this 
might come in handy for his leg! 

[She produces a warming-pan from beneath her shawl 
and lays it on the table. The ladies murmur ad- 
miringly.] 

Miss Betty. 

My Peggy heard from Martha that the horse shied at 
the sight of that new article of fashion, the Umbrella! 
[The ladies murmur their interest.] Horses of the lower 
classes have to be educated up to the Umbrella! — I my- 
self heard a Uttle boy irreverently describe one that was 
being held by Mr. Mulliner over the Honourable Mrs. 
Jamieson as a Stick in Petticoats. [The ladies are shocked. 
Mrs. Fitz-Adam curtseys. Mary tries not to laugh.] 
Macaroons steeped in brandy, my dear — [Handing a 
dish to Mary.] Little Cupids we call them! Excellent 
for a fractured member if taken internally! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[Giving a basket to Mary bashfully.] A few apricots, 
my dear — and an apple stuck full of cloves. Heat it, and 
it will smell pleasantly and take the poor man's mind off 
his leg! 

Mary. 
Everyone is so kind! 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 47 

Mrs. Forrester. 

I wonder if it may not be a judgment on the poor man 
for making his hving by conjuring tricks. [The ladies 
murmur questioningly .] If not downright unchristian it 
is certainly un-English to find a shilling in a twopenny loaf 
of bread! [Miss Betty says "Amenl'^] I cannot think 
that Dakin, our Cranford baker, furnished the loaf, since 
he is Churchwarden! 

Mi^s Pole. 

But the rector, Mr. Hayter, countenanced the exhibition 
with his presence! Oh, of course I did not look behind 
me to see, for fear of giving rise to unpleasant reports — 
in fact, risking my name being coupled with his, since 
Mr. Ha3^ter is a single man — in fact, a bachelor! — [The 
ladies murmur sympathetically.] But I heard him, and the 
National School boys he had treated, in chinks of laughter 
all the time! 



Nevertheless- 



Mrs. Forrester. 



Miss Pole. 



[Interrupting.] I looked up conjuring in the Encyclo- 
pedia! [She gets a book from the shelf, and finds the place 
while talking.] There is no witchcraft about it! A child 
could master the receipts for tricks! 

Mrs. Forrester. 
However 



48 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Pole. 

[Interrupting.] '' Let A represent the hand in a flexible 
condition, B a live rabbit, and C a man's hat!" — A-B-C — 
it is all a matter of the alphabet! I could do it myself, 
given a live rabbit, a man's hat, and time to make my 
third finger flexible! [She closes the hook with a bang.] 
And speaking of Mr. Hayter, if he were not a bachelor — 
and one does not want to seem particular! — I should 
write him a note, requesting him to offer up prayers for 
the poor conjuring creature — supplications for the re- 
covery of his right leg, and thanksgiving that the left had 
been mercifully spared! [The ladies murmur sympathy.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 
Let us hope the injury will not prove fatal! 

Miss Betty. 
[Piov^ly.] Amen ! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

Ladies — my brother — Tom Hoggins, says the bone will 
heal at the first intention! 

[The ladies^ puzzled, echo questioningly , "The first 
intention?"] 

Miss Pole. 

[Severely.] That sounds matrimonial — though I could 
see the connection better if it had been a rib! — No one 
but a man would jest on such a subject! [Ladies assent.] 



CRANFORD: A PLAY 49 

Miss Matty. 

[In bonnet and cloak, enters from the hall.] Oh, my dear 
friends — [Ladies curtsey greetings, saying Miss Matty; 
Miss Matilda Jenkyns; or Good-morning, Ma' ami] I 
went out for a few remedies — [Taking small bottles from 
her reticule.] — I did not wait for the chemist to send them 
home! 

Mrs. Forbester. 

[Excitedly.] At the risk of appearing indeUcate — Miss 
Matilda Jenkyns should not bear all the expense! 
[Ladies murmur assent.] 

Miss Matty. 

Dear friends, I can well afford it! Besides, there is a 

reason — it is a melancholy pleasure — I 

[Struggling with emotion, she goes hastily into the 
bedroom. The ladies look at one another question- 
ingly, asking, "What can she mean?"] 

Mary. 

I'll tell you! — Sh! [They form a group about Mary, 
heads together.] You ladies will remember Miss Matty's 
brother Peter? 

Miss Pole. 

Poor Peter! A handsome lad, though freckled! As 
a girl I was always fearful of my name being coupled with 
his — though of course there was nothing in it! 
D 



50 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Mrs. Forrester. 

Poor Peter — his father caned him for some boyish 
prank, and he ran away! 

Miss Betty. 

Such a high spirit — it came from being named for a 
Lord! Peter Marmaduke Arley Jenkyns! 

Mary. 

It seems that Signor Brown had to give up being a 
soldier and take to conjuration on account of his health. 
And when he first broke down in India he received great 
kindness from a gentleman whom he calls Aga Jenkyns. 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Excitedly.] Not the common Jenkyns? Jenkyns 
with a ''y'7 

Mary. 

Yes! And that ''y" makes Miss Matty think it may 
have been her brother Peter! 

[The ladies murmur " Wonderful!" They break apart 
guiltily, saying "Shf" as Miss Matty, having 
exchanged bonnet for cap, comes in from the bed- 
room. Mary, making warning signs to them, 
carries all the small offerings into the bedroom.] 

Miss Betty. 

Ahem! We were just saying, how fortunate the Honour- 
able Mrs. Jamieson is away at her favourite Spa on account 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 51 

of her sweet little Carlo's indigestion! The excitement 
of a runaway horse might have proved too great a shock 
for the high-strung nerves of the Honourable Mrs. Jamie- 
son! [All murmur assent. Mrs. Fitz-Adam curtseys.] 
Let us hope no word of the plebeian accident has reached 
the aristocratic ears of the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson's 
sister-in-law, Lady Glenmire! 

[Lady Glenmire enters from Miss Matty's room^ 
in a white apron, humming ^Tioas Within a Mile 
of Edinboro Town. Great sensation among the 
ladies. She goes to the table and picks up the 
warming-pan.^ 

Ah, that's a bonny size! 

Miss Betty. 

Your Ladyship — [Trying to seize the warming-pan.] 
The hands of the Peerage must not be defiled! 

Lady Glenmire. 
[Capturing the warming-pan.] Na, na, I winna! [Goes 
to the fire.] Ou, aye, I'm a sonsy sick-nurse! Ask Tarn 
Hoggins ! 

[Kneels, and with the tongs, fills the warming-pan 
with hot cinders, humming a song the while.] 

Mrs. Forrester, Miss Pole, Miss Betty. 
Lady — Glen-mire — Tom — Hog-gins ! 

Miss Matty. 
[Explaining in an undertone.] As soon as she heard of 



52 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

the accident she came and installed herself, like an aristo- 
cratic Angel of light and condescension! — I only deprecate 
that she has to take orders from a surgeon, who though a 
worthy soul and giving his services gratuitously, is a 
Hoggins ! 

[Mrs. Forrester, Miss Pole, Miss Betty assent] 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

The best man that ever trod shoe-leather is my brother 
Tom, if I do say it! And with all his book-learning and 
the pretty penny he's put by, never one whit ashamed of 
having risen from dairy-produce! [She wipes her hrow, 
heated.] 

[Miss Matty, Mrs. Forrester, Miss Pole and 
Miss Betty exchange glances.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Hopelessly.] The butter sticks to her, although her 
name begins with Fitz! 
[The ladies agree.] 

Miss Betty. 

After all, if my presumption in saying so may be ex- 
cused. Lady Glenmire is but a young thing — barely 
turned forty! Perhaps one of you ladies could remon- 
strate with her in the absence of the Honourable Mrs. 
Jamieson ! 

[The ladies murmur pleasure at the idea.^ 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 63 

Miss Matty. 
[Hurriedly.] You, of course, dear Mrs. Forrester 

Mrs. Forrester. 
[With her hand to her ear.] Eh? 

Miss Matty. 

You — We look to you since you accidentally shot 
royalty! [Ladies agree.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Not relishing the task, hut feeling it due to her dignity.] 
Ahem! — By the way, dear Lady Glenmire, speaking of 
Mr. Hoggins 

Lady Glenmire. 

Ou, aye, speaking of Tarn Hoggins? 

Mrs. Forrester. 
A most manly man! — If only he had studied Lord 
Chesterfield's Letters in his youth! — He — he — he has been 
seen, when sitting, to cross his legs! 

Lady Glenmire. 

Vera like! Vera like! — a comfortable poseetion and 
becoming to a manly man! 

Mrs. Forrester. 

Yes, yes, of course! Though it is whispered that he 
sups nightly in his surgery off beer and bread and cheese! 



64 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Lady Glenmire. 
Maybe! A braw dish is beer and bread and cheese! 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Flurried.] So it is! So it is! [She looks helplessly 
at the other ladies.] 

Miss Matty. 

I suppose the social prejudice is created by just the 
name of Hoggins! 

Lady Glenmire. 
[Humming.] A man's a man, for a' that! 

Miss Matty. 

[Hastily.] To be sure! And it would be no better if 
he were to change it to Piggins! [A slight pause while 
Lady Glenmire hums.] 

Miss Pole. 

Oh, of course, any task requiring courage — ! [Speak- 
ing louder, at Lady Glenmire.] As a surgeon, Cranford 
is proud of Mr. Hoggins! 

Lady Glenmire. 
Nae doubt! 

Miss Pole. 
[Handsomely.] I entrust my own teeth to him! [The 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 55 

ladies murmur admiration.] I never hear of the dear 
Queen, or the Duke of Welhngton being ill without wish- 
ing they would send for Mr. Hoggins! — But 

[She pauses, not knowing how to continue.^ 

Lady Glenrure. 
But ? 



Miss Pole. 

But if he were appointed Court Physician what would 
become of Cranford's replaceable teeth, its fractured 
limbs, to say nothing of difficulties occurring in between, 
without Mr. Hoggins! [She ends lamely.] 

Miss Betty. 

I take the liberty of concurring with you ladies as 
to Mr. Hoggins's skill as a physician! When my cow fell 
into the lime-pit and had every hair singed off her poor 
dear hide it was Mr. Hoggins that saved the darling's 
life! 

[The ladies show interest] 

Mrs. Forrester. 
What did he prescribe? Syrup of squills? 

Miss Matty. 

Cupping? Leeching? 

Miss Pole. 
A warming-pan? 



56 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Betty. 

No, ladies! A flannel waistcoat, and a pair, or rather 
a double pair, of flannel drawers! 

Ladies. 
[Impressed.] Wonderful ! 

Lady Glenmire, [rising.] 

[With the warming-pan, goes into the bedroom , hum- 
ming " The rank is hut the guinea's stamp; the man's the 
gowd for a' that!" Ladies exchange glances.] 

Miss Pole. 

There! I meant to say something very sharp and 
sarcastic! I daresay I shall think of the right thing 
to-night! 

Mrs. Forrester. 

Perhaps it will be best to let the matter rest till the 
return of the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson! 

[The ladies concur. Mrs. Fitz-Adam curtseys. Lady 
Glenmire, tying on her bonnet smartly, comes 
from the bedroom. The ladies start guiltily.] 

Lady Glenmire. 

Dinna ye disturb the lad in there! When he wakes 
will be time enough to give him his draps! Meanwhile 
I'm off to report the case to Tam Hoggins! 

[She goes out, humming ^' She's o'er the borders and 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 57 

awa' wi' Jock o' Hazeldeanf" The ladies throw 
up hands and eyes, and wag their heads, as- 
tonished.] 

Miss Matty. 

[Indulgently.] Ah, well, young people will be young 
people! 

Miss Betty. 

And not even the odour o'f chloride of lime can con- 
taminate the Peerage! 

[Mary, breathless with 'excitement, enters from the 
bedroom, and at the same moment, Martha, 
equally excited, bursts in from the hall.] 

Mary. 
Oh, Miss Matty! Such news! 

Martha. 

[At the same time.] Oh, ma'am — Such doings! 

[The ladies look from one to another. Only Mrs. 
Fitz-Adam shows no surprise.] 

Miss Matty. 

Mary, my love, your complexion is raised most un- 
becomingly! — As for you, Martha 

Martha. 
Ma'am, Jem Hearn stopped in to tell me — Mr. Hoggins 



58 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

has ordered a new pair of top-boots for the first time in 
twenty years! 

Miss Matty. 
Martha, that is not a fit subject for the parlour! 

Martha. 
But, ma'am, Jem telled me he's agoing to be married, 
ma'am! Mr. Hoggins, please, ma'am, married! 

Miss Pole. 

Good gracious me! As if, except professionally, we took 
the slightest interest in a Mr. Hoggins! 

Martha. 
But, ma'am — ! [She pauses, speechless with excitement] 

Mary. 

[Who has been trying to speak.] Oh, Miss Matty, Lady 
Glenmire is going to be married! 

Ladies. 
[All but Mrs. Fitz-Adam, excited.] WHAT! 

Mary. 

[Nodding corroboration.] Lady Glenmire! She's so 
happy! [Breaks off breathlessly.] 

Ladies. 
Well, well, to be sure! 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 59 

Mrs. Forrester. 

Well, well! Someone we know going to be married! 
It is fifteen years since I heard of any one of my ac- 
quaintance going to be married! 

Miss Matty. 

In Cranford, too, where the poor dear might have felt 
herself so safe! [The ladies murmur , "That is true!''] — 
It's coming very near! 

Miss Pole. 

So' near my heart stopped beating while you might 
have counted twelve when I foresaw it! [The ladies 
murmur questioningly , "Foresaw it?"] — For of course I 
foresaw it! I have a gift that way! Though out of 
consideration for your timid natures I forebore to men- 
tion it — for one does not know whose turn may come 
next! [The ladies nod, saying, "How true!"] — Now, 
who — ? [Taking the Peerage from the shelf.] — Who are 
the unmarried Peers! [Turning over the leaves.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 

Glenmire having been a Baron her Ladyship's second 
choice will naturally be a viscount! 

Miss Betty. 
Or a Belted Earl! 

Miss Matty. 
[In reverential tones.] Or possibly a Bishop! 



60 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Betty. 
[Piously.] Amen! 

Miss Matty. 

We must arrange a series of tea-parties ! How fortunate 
the new carpet is down! — Also that I have saved enough 
for a new silk gown. Johnson has just sent me the 
samples! [She takes out the samples.] — I wonder whether 
the Peerage would be more complimented by a yellow- 
spotted lilac, or a sea-green! 

Mrs. Forrester. 

I must wash the Tyrrell lace, and get a new cap. 
Johnson tells me that the dear Queen is wearing turbans! 

Miss Pole. 

[Turning over the leaves.] Viscount, Earl — I must get 
my brooches cleaned! 

Miss Betty. 

What a joyful surprise for the Honourable Mrs. Jamie- 
son! 

Miss Pole. 

Marquess, Bishop — And a very pretty compliment to 
Cranf ord I 

Martha. 
But, ma'am 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 61 

Mary. 
[At the same time.] But, Miss Matty 

Mary and Martha. 

Lady Glenmire is going to be married to Mr. Hoggins! 
[The ladies fairly shriek with surprise.] \^ 

WHAT! 

Martha. 

Please, ma'am, it's the truth! Jem Hearn heard of it 
in Johnson's! 

Miss Pole. 

Heard of it in a public shop! You and I, Miss Matty, 
would be ashamed to have our marriage mentioned in a 
grocer's ! 

Miss Matty. 

But — it may not be true! Surely we are doing her an 
injustice! 

Miss Betty. 
Amen! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[Rising.] Ladies, it's gospel true! True as eggs is 
eggs! [The ladies shudder.] My brother Tom Hoggins 
and Lady Glenmire have come to an understanding! 



62 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Pole. 

Understanding! Such a coarse word, understanding! 
I have my own opinion of a woman who having been 
married once is guilty of the weakness a second time! 
[She closes the book with a bang.] 

Miss Matty. 
Of course Lady Glenmire is very attractive 

Miss Pole. 

Attractive? Aye, with an attraction that I should be 
ashamed to boast of! 

Miss Matty. 

Yet I myself have felt that in a widow her dimples 
were out of place! 

Mrs. Forrester. 

And her way of rustling about, bold as a lion, in black 
silk, when, although Glenmire drank himself to death, 
considering his rank, bombazine would have shown a 
deeper sense of loss! 

Miss Betty. 

What a blow to the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson! 
[A distant horn is heard in the street.] 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

There they go now to church — Tom and her Ladyship! 
[She runs from the room in joyful excitement. The 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 63 

ladies express refined horror. Mary and Martha 
run to the window and throw it open. Martha 
waves her apron, Mary her handkerchief. '\ 

Martha. 
Oh, but isn't it grand! 

Mary. 

The coachman wears a white favour — Mr. Hoggins 

looks radiant — and her Ladyship so h^ppy 

[The ladies exclaim, outraged.'] 

Miss Matty. 

Mary! Most unbecoming in a young person! Martha, 
close that window, and return to your kitchen instantly! 
[Martha obeys reluctantly. Mary sits near the 
window, looking out with the tail of her eye.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Rising impressively.] I deem it due to our Order that 
the Cranford Ladies should draw down their blinds! 

Miss Betty. 
Amen! 

[Mrs. Forrester, Miss Pole and Miss Betty 
mxirch out with downcast eyes. Miss Matty" 
draws down the blind.] p aJ^"^ 

Mary. 

[Sighs, rises and takes some samples from the table, 
where Miss Matty had laid them.] As there will be no 



i(M>- 



Uf<tp\^' jnr^'- 



64 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

tea-parties you had better choose this lovely silver-gray! 
[She holds the sample to Miss Matty's face.] What a 
pretty girl you must have been! 

Miss Matty. 

I had very pretty hair, my dear, and not a bad mouth 
— and thankful though I am, as dear Miss Pole wishes me 
to be, at not being married, yet there was a time when I 
did not expect to remain Miss Matilda Jenkyns! [A 
knock is heard.] There's the postman! A day was when 
his coming meant something to me! — Even now, were I 
to meet anyone who might wish to marry me — and as 
Miss Pole says, one is never safe! — I hope he would not 
take it too much to heart that I refused him! For the 
only person — I — [She takes a bundle of faded letters from 
a drawer.] — Lady Glenmire's fate has set me thinking! 
Draw up the blind a wee bit, love, while I look over these 
old letters! You'll think me wasteful, but there are some 
I should prefer to burn instead of keeping them for spills 
— candle-lighters, you know! 

[Mary draws up the blind halfway. Miss Matty 
looks over the letters. Martha enters with two 
letters on a tray; presents one to Miss Matty, the 
other to Mary.] 

Miss Matty. 

[Opening her letter.] What may this be! A little more 
light, love! [Mary draws up the blind entirely.] Most 
flattering! A printed invitation to attend an important 
meeting of the shareholders of the Drumble Town and 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 65 

County Bank ! I fear I shall not be much aid to them, as 
I never could carry figures in my head — However — [She 
picks up the samples.] — Perhaps after all I had better 
decide on the yellow-spotted lilac! [Martha coughs to 
attract attention.] What is it, Martha! Oh, to be sure! 
The shilling for the postman! [She gives a shilling to 
Martha.] 

Martha. 
Poor soul, he'll need it now, ma'am! 

Miss Matty. 
Why? Is Lame Thomas in any trouble? 

Martha. 
Trouble enough, please, ma'am! On his way here he 
stopped in at Johnson's to buy his old woman a new 
shawl — He was going to pay for it out of a note on the 
Town and County Bank — but found it worthless, as the 
bank has stopped payment! 

Miss Matty. 
[Dropping her letter.] The — Bank — stopped 

Mary. 
[Looking up from her own letter.] Oh, dear Miss Matty, 
this letter from my father tells me about it! It is true! 

Miss Matty. 
True! — Martha, what was the value of Lame Thomas's 
note? 

E 



66 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Martha. 
His savings for a year, please ma'am — all of five pounds! 

Miss Matty. 

[Giving money to Martha.] ,Tell Thomas I wish to buy 
that note from him! 

Martha. 

Very well, ma'am! — Poor soul but with his ailing wife 
and eleven children he'll be glad ! [She goes out hastily.] 

Mary. 
Miss Matty — that is the money for your new gown! 

Miss Matty. 
As a shareholder I could do no less! 

Mary. 
Miss Matty — had you much money in the Bank? 

Miss Matty. 

All I possess! [Mary exclaims.] But when to-day ^s 
lamb chops are paid for I shall not owe a farthing in the 
world! — For myself it does not matter — but all my dear 
ones — they always held their heads so high on account 
of our connection with Sir Peter Arley — Thank Heaven 
they are spared this blow! [She wipes her eyes. Mary 
cries, Martha hursts into the room tempestuously.] 



CRANFORD: A PLAY 67 

Martha. 

Oh, ma'am — I didn't understand, but Jem Hearn 
stopped in to tell me — [She falls on her knees in front of 
Miss Matty, clasping her knees, and sobbing.] 

Miss Matty. • 
There, there, Martha! I'm sorry we must part! 

Martha. 
Part! Us? — You can't do without me at your age! 

Miss Matty. 

[Slightly nettled.] My age, Martha? How old do you 
think I am? 

Martha. 

Folks' looks is often against them, ma'am, but I should 
say you can't be far short of sixty! 

Miss Matty. 
On the contrary, Martha, I am not yet fifty-eight! 

Martha. 
Young or old, ma'am, you needn't give me warning, 
for I won't take it! — I know when I've got a good missus, 
even if you don't know when you have a good servant. 

Miss Matty. 
But, Martha 



68 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Martha. 
Don't ''But Martha'' me! 

Miss Matty. 

[Between tears and laughter.] My good girl, listen to 
reason! 

Martha. 

I won't listen to reason! Reason always means what 
someone else thinks! I've got money in the Savings 
Bank, and, and, and — I'm going this very minute to 
make a pudding out of my own pocket, and you've got 
to eat it, so THERE! [She goes out tempestuously.] 

Miss Matty. 

Good, faithful heart — [She breaks dovm, then controls 
her sobs and looks at the clock.] 

Time to give poor dear Signor Brown his medicine! 
[She goes hastily into the bedroom.] 

Mary. 

[Drying her eyes.] Now if only that gentleman Sam 
Brown calls Aga Jenkyns should turn out to be Miss 
Matty's long lost brother! — I'll write to him on the chance! 
[She sits at the table, takes a quill pen, writing a word or 
two, then nibbling the pen.] How does one spell Chunder- 
abaadad! [Miss Pole enters breathlessly.] 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 69 

Miss Pole. 

My Lizzy — Martha — the Bank — [She sits, gasping for 
breath.] 

Mary. 
Miss Pole, please, how do you spell Chunderabaadad! 

Miss Pole. 

[Pointing to the bookshelf.] Encyclopedia — Johnson^s 
Dictionary! [Recovering breath.] My cousin Thomas 
Holbrook could have told you in a flash! He was quite 
the literary man! Had twenty-six cows, named for the 
different letters of the alphabet! [She notices a bundle of 
letters on the table.] That's his very handwriting! 

Mary. 

[Interested, putting two and two together.] Oh! — What 
has become of Mr. Holbrook! 

Miss Pole. 

Died from the effects of a fortnight's visit to the wicked 
city of Paris! We never knew if it was from frogs' legs 
or revolutions! 

Mary. 
[With emotion.] How sad! Poor Miss Matty! 

Mrs. Forrester, m 

[Entering hurriedly.] Oh, my dear! Jenny heard from 
Martha — Poor Miss Matty 



70 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[Entering hurriedly.] Oh, my dear Miss Matty — Rosy 
learned from Martha 

Miss Betty. 

[Entering hurriedly.] My dear Miss Matilda Jenkyns 

— My Peggy having heard from Martha 

[All sit, trying to control their weeping. Mary, weep-^ 
ing, pours out and passes some cowslip wine.] 

Miss Pole. 

[Who has been taking notes at the table, rises impressively.] 
Ahem! — Ladies of Cranford — [She motions all to draw 
chairs to the table.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 
[Her hand to her ear.] Eh? 

Miss Betty. 
Quite so! 

[All draw chairs to the table.] 

Miss Pole. 

Ladies of Cranford! — I believe I voice the sentiment 
of all present when I say that we consider wealth to be 
vulgar! ["Hear, hear!" "Quite sof' &c.] If there is 
one thing more vulgar than — er — vulgarity, it is wealth! 
[The ladies rap table delicately, applauding.] Our lives 
are regulated by an — [Consulting memorandum.] — by an 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 71 

Elegant Economy! [Ladies, delighted, echo *' Elegant 
Economy!"] 

Miss Betty. 

Oh, if only the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson were present 
to enjoy the aristocratic flavour of this hour! 
[Mrs. Fitz-Adam curtseys.] 

Miss Pole. 

[Having again consulted memorandum.] While we are 
none of us affluent, each possesses a genteel competency, 
sufficient for tastes that are elegant, and refined, and that 
would not, if they could, descend to vulgar ostentation! 
[The ladies again applaud and Miss Betty says "Amen"!] 
Therefore, while we have a superfluity, in view of the 
misfortune — overtaken — Miss Matilda Jenkyns — [Grimly 
biting off her sobs.] Each one state, in a sealed envelope, 
just how much she can contribute annually ! [The ladies 
warmly assent, and each one writes, after a little calculation 
on her fingers.] Miss Smith! [Mary rises respectfully.] 
Kindly ask your father, who is a business man, to devise 
some secret method — some concealed manner — investing 
— benefit — Miss Matilda Jenkyns 

Mary. 
Oh, my dear Miss Pole — [She breaks down sobbing.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[She hands an envelope to Miss Pole, then takes Mary 
aside.] My dear, I should so gladly give more — but I 



72 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

have so little — For dear Miss Matty's sake how I wish — 
[Sohhing.] 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[After handing her envelope to Miss Pole taking Mary 
aside.] My dear, I haven't set more down on paper, for 
fear of being thought ostentatious. But, you see, Fitz- 
Adam having left me in vulgarly affluent circumstances 
— while I live she shall never want — [Sobbing.] 

Miss Betty. 

[Having handed her envelope to Miss Pole and taking 
Mary aside.] Being only a retired milliner my presump- 
tion will perhaps be excused in having put down a trifle 
more than the aristocracy! 

Miss Pole. 

[Handing Mary the envelopes having added her own.] 
Father — concealed investment — Sh! [Miss Matty, vnp- 
ing her eyes, enters from the bedroom. Mary hastily puts 
the envelopes into her bosom, while all the ladies guiltily 
say ^'Shr'] 

Miss Pole. 

[Oratorically, standing in the centre of the room.] Ahem! 
— Miss Matilda Jenkyns — In view of the visitation that 
has overtaken you by the hand of Providence and a man- 
mismanaged Bank 

Mrs. Forrester. 
Eh? 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 73 

Miss Betty. 



Amen! 



Miss Pole. 

I repeat, Miss Matilda Jenkyns, that the Ladies of 
Cranford — [Opening her arms wide.] — Matty, come to my 
arms! [Miss Matty flies into Miss Pole's embrace. The 
other ladies then embrace her, all crying. Martha rushes 
in, waving a dish with a custard' pudding, made in the form 
of a lion with currants for eyes.] 

Martha. 

[Proudly, showing the pudding to Miss Matty.] There! 
That's a pudding as is a pudding! I made it out of my 
own head! — The British Hon with currants for his eyes! 

Miss Matty. 

Oh, Martha, it is beau — b-beautiful! I should like to 
keep it always, under a glass case! 

Martha. 

Keep it? You'll eat it, every mouthful! — I'll set it to 
cool! [She goes out hastily with the pudding. A loud 
knock is heard.] 

Ladies. 

Mulliner's knock! — It must be the Honourable Mrs. 
Jamieson! 

[Mrs. Jamieson enters with Carlo.] 



74 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

Miss Matilda Jenkyns — Ladies ! [The ladies curtsey and 
Miss Matty offers a chair.] I have just returned from 
Spa, poor dear Carlo feeling better, and I myself finding 
no place so favourable for sleep as Cranf ord ! [The ladies 
murmur approbation.] 

Miss Betty. 
What condescension! 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

With every personal regret for the misfortune which, 
Mulliner informs me, has overtaken Miss Matilda Jen- 
kyns, yet under the circumstances I can no longer con- 
sider Miss Matilda Jenkyns's roof a fitting shelter for my 
sister-in-law. Lady Glenmire! [She pauses impressively y 
while the ladies look at one another, wondering how to break 
the news to her.] 

Miss Pole and Miss Matty. 

Mrs. Forrester, ma'am — as one born a Tyrrell, won't 
you tell her about Lady Glenmire! 

Mrs. Forrester. 
[Her hand to her ear.] Eh! [A knock is heard.] 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

Mulliner does not like to be kept waiting, so if you will 
kindly inform Lady Glenmire — ! 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 75 

Martha. 

[At the door announcing The Hogginses.] Mr. and 
Mrs. Hoggins have called to express their loving sym- 
pathy for Miss Matty ! [There is a sensation among all 
present at these words. ^ 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

Hoggins! Hoggins! As a professional man I recognise 
Mr. Hoggins — but socially I cannot sanction the exis- 
tence of a Mrs. Hoggins; therefore, if you will call Lady 
Glenmire 

Martha. 

[Very loud, announcing.] Mr. Hoggins, and Lady Glen- 
mire as was, now Mrs. Hoggins! [The sensation is re- 
newed. Lady Glenmire, carrying a huge bouquet of 
white flowers, appears, beaming, in the doorway, trying to 
tug some one forward.] 

Lady Glenmire. 

Come in, Tam! The ladies will na' hurt ye! — The lad 
is bashful ! [Mrs. Jamieson shrieks and sinks back in her 
chair. The ladies murmur excitedly.] 

Miss Betty. 

[Impressively.] The Honourable Mrs. Jamieson has 
fainted! [The ladies buzz, excitedly.] 






^ ^t 



ACT III 



ACT III 

[The room is now arranged as a shop, the tables being placed 
end to end, so as to form a counter, while a bell on the 
door tinkles at anyone's entrance. On the counters and 
shelves are scales, packages, balls of string, canmsters 
and boxes of tea, etc.; also glass jars of comfits.] 

DISCOVERED —Miss Matty sitting behind the counter, 
knitting, and crooning ^' THE OLD HUNDREDTH." 
Mary enters, hastily, in a bonnet, and carrying a 
travelling bag. Miss Matty, hearing the bell, Inys 
down her knitting and rises. 

Miss Matty. 
To what may I have the pleasure of serving you, Miss? 

Mary. 
[Droprring her bag.] Miss Matty-It's I-Mary Smith! 

Miss Matty. 

Mary, my love! 

[She runs from behind the counter, and they fly mto 
each other's arms. Martha appears in the door- 
way, smiling.] 



80 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Mary. 

As you didn't invite me to pay my annual visit I came 
of my own accord! — Martha was in the secret! 

Miss Matty. 

You see, love, this is no longer my house! Though in- 
deed I feel as if it still were, since I lodge with Martha 
and Jem! 

Martha. 

{Truculently.'] And pray with whom else would you 
lodge! — It's an ill wind that blows no one any good! 
After that blessed Bank broke, when Jem Hearn axed 
me to name the day, said I we'd have to take a lodger 
to make both our ends meet — and what house so con- 
formable for a lodger as Miss Matilda Jenkyns's — and who 
so true a lady to serve as Miss Matty herself! 
[She goes out hastily.] 

Miss Matty. 

Good, faithful hearts! My only fear is that my mis- 
fortune precipitated them into the solemn step of matri- 
mony! 

Mary. 
[Looking about.] And this is your little shop! 

Martha. 
[Entering vnth a hoard sign which she displays with 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 81 

pride.] And this is her Uttle sign! I shine up the gilt 
letters every day! 

Mary. 
[Reading the sign with interest] MATILDA JENKYNS 
LICENSED TO SELL TEA. 

[Martha carries the sign proudly out.] 

Miss Matty. 
[Explaining.] For the sake of my friends, my dear, 
we place it inconspicuously, under the lintel of the door, 
so as to attract the least possible attention ! This seemed 
the best way to eke out my small resources. There proved 
to be very small market demand for knitted garters or 
candle-lighters. My eyes are not strong enough to do 
the Royal Family in woolwork! While as for teaching, 
dearly as I love little children, in geography I never re- 
member whether to turn the globes to right or left — and 
in astronomy, it fairly makes my head dizzy when I think 
that the earth is spinning round beneath my feet! — Now 
tea is a genteel drink! Tea is neither greasy nor sticky 
to the touch — and above all, the Cranford ladies wholly 
approve of my selling tea! 

[Miss Betty Barker enters carrying a little dish. 
She curtseys.] 

Miss Betty. 
Ladies! Miss Matilda Jenkyns, ma'am, may my pre- 
sumption be excused if I beg you to do me the distin- 
guished honour of serving me with twelve pounds of tea! 
F 



1 



82 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Matty. 

[Going behind the counter to serve, demurs.] My dear 
Miss Betty Barker — twelve pounds! 

Miss Betty. 
Christmas presents for my friends, ma'am! 

Miss Matty. 

Christmas! 

Miss Betty. 

I am by way of celebrating Christmas at Michaelmas! 
[While Miss Matty counts out twelve packages, Miss Betty 
thrusts the dish into ]\Iary's hands.] Little Cupids for her 
supper, love! Most sustaining in adversity, if taken in- 
ternally ! 

Miss Matty. 

[Stacking the packages in front of Miss Betty.] I fear 
I ought not to take away so large an order from Johnson! 

Miss Betty. 

Madam, no mere grocer can supply the aristocratic 
flavour which you, as late rector's daughter can impart 
to common Bohea! 

Mary. 

Besides, Miss Matty, as you wrote me, when you asked 
Mr. Johnson if this venture of yours would injure him, 
what was it he said? 



CRANFORD: A PLAY 83 

Miss Matty. 

[Trying to recall.] Competition — I forget if it's from 
Dr. Johnson or the Bible, but it's something about com- 
petition! 

Mary. 
Competition is the hfe of trade! 



[Piously.] Amen 



Miss Betty. y 



[She is about to depart with the packages but, pauses ., 
as Mrs. Fitz-Adam enters.] \ jf i\JW "Y^ 

i I 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[Curtesying .] Miss Matty! Mary! [Presenting the basket 
of fruit and flowers.] A few apricots and a bowpot of 
stocks and gilliflowers from my garden, ma'am! 

Miss Matty. 
[Smelling the flowers, delighted.] How kind! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

The kindness is yours in accepting them, ma'am! May 
I have the honour of purchasing three pounds of tea? 

Miss Matty. 
The honour is mine! Which kind do you prefer? 



xM 



84 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
Whichever kind you prefer to dispose of, ma'am! 

Miss Matty. 

My dear madam, you are the customer. I have all 
kinds, from Congou to Gunpowder! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
The most expensive ! [Laying money on the counter.^ 

Miss Matty. 

[Looking nearsightedly at the money.'] The change — 
Mary, love, help me with the change! Are these shillings? 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[Gesticulating wildly to Mary.] Aye, shillings, every 
blessed one of em! 

Mary. 

[Nodding understanding, and putting the money in the 
till] Aye! Golden shillings, every blessed one! 

[Mrs. Forrester enters, carrying a little howl.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 

Miss Matilda Jenkyns — Mary — Ladies — [All curtsey.] 
A taste of the Tyrrell Bread Jelly, my dear Miss Matty, — 
[Miss Matty accepts the bowl with becoming reverence and 
gratitude. Mrs. Fitz-Adam cv/rtseys.] And, I fear I must 
trouble you for a pound of Pekoe! 



CRANFORD : A PLAY S6 

Miss Matty. 

[Weighing the tea.] My dear Mrs. Forrester — you 
bought a pound only yesterday! Consider, I beg, the 
ultra-refinement of your sensibilities. 

Mrs. Forrester. 
[Her hand to her ear.] Eh? — Yes, two pounds, please! 

Miss Betty. 

[Going close to Mrs. Forrester.] Miss Matilda Jen- 
kyns was remarking, madam, on the ultra-refined sen- 
sibilities of one born a Tyrrell and allied to the Biggses of 
Bigelow Hall in connection with green tea! 

Mrs. Forrester. 

As the widow of an army officer I think I may be said 
to know what to be afraid of and what not! 
[Miss Pole enters, briskly.] 

Miss Pole. 

Good-morning, Matty — Mary — Ladies — [Everyone curt- 
seys.] I dropped in to tell you the news, and — [Sinking 
into the chair, gasping.] While I get my breath just put 
me up a pound or so of Oolong — 

Miss Matty. 

My dear Miss Pole, that is your second order to-day, 
and while, as the poet Cowper so prettily says, Tea, taken 



86 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

by the cupful, cheers, without — er — more stimulating 
consequences, nevertheless, two pounds in one day — ! 

Miss Pole. 

I can prove to you, by your own Encyclopedia — [She 
goes to the bookshelf, and gets down a hook.'] — that there are 
instances on record of phenomenal longevity attributable 
wholly to the preservative qualities of tea! [Turning 
rapidly over the leaves.] And do not the Esquimaux 
subsist exclusively on a diet of trainnDil and tallow candles 
enlivened with a relish of old boots? [She closes the book 
with a bang.] Besides, the dear Queen herself sanctions 
the practice of drinking tea ! 

Miss Betty. 
Amen! And so does the Honourable Mrs. Jamieson! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
And so does my sister-in-law, Mrs. Tom Hoggins, 
Lady Glenmire that was! 

[Mrs. Jamieson with Carlo enters. All the ladies 
rise and curtsey, except Mrs. Fitz-Adam, who 
takes no notice of her.] 

Mrs. Jamieson. 
Miss Matilda Jenkyns, will you kindly serve me with 
a quarter of a pound of tea! 

Miss Matty. 
My dear Mrs. Jamieson, with pleasure, Which kind? 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 87 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

Hyson! Carlo fancies the flavour of Hyson with his 
cream! [She sits, closing her eyes languidly, while Miss 
Matty weighs out tea. Lady Glenmire appears smiling 
in the doorway.] Carlo, Mulliner, and myself are only 
just beginning to recover from the shock of the family 
mesalliance — [Speaking languidly, while Miss Betty fans 
her; dropping off into slumber.] 

Lady Glenmire. 

[Advancing, curtseys, smiling.] Aweel, friends all ! Gude 
morning to ye! [The ladies curtsey.] Miss Matty, will ye 
make up twenty pounds of tea to my order? I'll send 
one of the young men from the surgery to fetch it! [She 
lays a banknote on the counter.] 

Miss Matty. 
Twenty pounds! Dear Lady Hoggins — Mrs. Glenmire! 

Lady Glenmire. 

A favourite prescreeption of my man's! A pound 
apiece to all the old men and women in the almshouse! 
Tam finds it heartens them more than bleeding! 

Miss Matty. 

(Counting packages with Mary's aid.] Dear Lord Hog- 
gins is so kind to the poor! 



88 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Lady Glenmire. 

No lord to his name, please — He is one of Nature's 
noblemen! 

[Enthusiastic murmur of assent from all. Mrs. 
Jamieson wakens with a slight snore, and seeing 
Lady Glenmire, stares at her sternly.] 

Lady Glenmire. 

[Holding out her hand to Mrs. Jamieson.] Well, sister- 
in-law! 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

Sister-in — Creature ! 

[She turns her hack on Lady Glenmire, while Miss 
Betty revives her with smelling salts.] 

Lady Glenmire. 
[Seeing Mrs. Fitz-Adam.] Well, sister-in-law! 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 
Dearest Jeanie — ! [Embracing Lady Glenmire. J 

Lady Glenmire. 
[Returning the embrace.] Dearest Molly! 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

[Shrieking.] Creature — the low, low creature! My 
carriage — Mulliner. 

[She waddles off, majestically, supported by Miss 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 89 

Betty. Lady Glenmire and Mrs. Fitz-Adam 
go out mth arms about each other's waists.] 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Looking after Lady Glenmire.] A year has passed — 
and she seems very happy! 

Miss Pole. 
Unreasonably so, considering that Hoggins is a man! 

Miss Matty. 

Nevertheless — though of course, dear Miss Pole, I am 
thankful as you wish me to be, that you and I have es- 
caped — nevertheless, in times of adversity and danger a 
man 

Miss Pole. 

Adversity, danger, Matilda Jenkyns! In adversity are 
men the tea-consumers of the world? And in danger 
would a man stand waiting to brand a horde of robbers 
with a red-hot poker 1— Don't talk to me of men! My 
father was a man, and I know the sex pretty well ! 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Rising impressively.] The dignity of our Order hav- 
ing been vindicated by a year's mourning, to-day I shall 
call on Mrs. Thomas Hoggins! 

Miss Pole. 
[With decision.] And so shall I. For in the case of a 



90 CRANFOKD : A PLAY 

woman of a naturally credulous disposition, marriage 
may be considered less folly than misfortune! 

[Curtseying to Miss Matty, Mrs. Forrester and 
Miss Pole go out.] 

Miss Matty. 

We haven^t had such an excitement in Cranford since 
the poor dear Signor broke his leg! 

Mary. 

[Who has been looking out of the window.] And speak- 
ing of men, Miss Matty, there is a strange gentleman 
across the street, looking up at this window! — A tanned 
complexion, snow-white hair and beard — his clothes a 
foreign, outlandish cut — I don't think he belongs to 
Cranford! — He's crossing, coming here! 

Miss Matty. 
Dear, dear! Gentlemen-customers make me so nervous 
— they always drum their fingers as if they were in a 
hurry for their change! — You wait on him, Mary, while 

I change my cap 

[She trots hastily into the bedroom.] 

Peter. 

[Entering, and standing at the door, looking about him,] 
Miss Matilda Jenkyns? 

Mary. 
She will be here in a minute ! To what may I serve you? 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 91 

Peter. 

[Advancing and looking at her fixedly; he shakes his head.] 
No, you're not my sister! Yours is a new face, come up 
since my day! 

Mary. 

[Aside, rather frightened.] Good Heavens, is he mad! 

Martha. 

[Bursting in, with the sign.] Here, Mister! Here's our 
sign! I got Jem to take it down for you because you 
telled me you had taken a fancy to it and would pay 
handsome! But I want you to understand that our 
Miss Matty is the quaUty, and if you intend any disre- 
spect, my Jem stands six-foot-three in his stocking-feet! 
[She stops breathless.] 

Peter. 

[Kindly.] Bless your honest heart, and your Jem's 
inches! Is your name Mary Smith? 

Mary. 

Yes, yes! 

Peter. 

[To Mary.] And you wrote me this letter? [Show- 
ing the letter.] 

Mary. 
[In joyful excitement.] Oh, yes! Signer Brown told me 



92 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

about you — and I thought that Aga Jenkyns might be 
you — I mean, that you might be Aga Jenkyns 

Peter. 

You were a good girl! I had moved from Chunder- 
abaadad, but as soon as the letter reached me I set off — 
My little sister Matty! 

Mary. 
[Moving toward bedroom.] I had better prepare her! 

Peter. 

Aye, prepare her! — Oh, by the way — [Mary pauses.] 
At the window I saw an old lady in cap and spectacles. 
Who is she? 

Mary. 

[Amazed at the question.] Why — Mr. Peter, that is 
your sister Matty! 

Peter. 

[Scratching his head, puzzled, then laughing.] To be 

sure — forty years 

[Martha, who has been standing staring, mouth 
agape, suddenly understands, drops the sign, and 
rushes off, waving her arms and laughing boister- 
ously. Miss Matty, in her best cap, enters from 
the bedroom. Mary hastily pushes Peter be- 
hind the screen.] 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 93 

Miss Matty. 

Did you serve the gentleman, my dear? Thank 
Heaven he is gone! Miss Pole is quite right about men; 
they flutter one about the house! 

Maey. 

Is there no man whom you would be glad to see come 
in at that door sometimes, Miss Matty? 

Miss Matty. 

[Resuming her knitting.] No one now living, my dear. 
— Unless — my poor dear brother Peter! [She sighs.] 

Mary. 
What was your brother Peter like? 

Miss Matty. 

Oh, such a handsome lad — [Laying down her knitting,] 
I can see him as well as if he stood there — A fair skin with 
freckles on his nose, and bright wavy hair and full of fun, 
always laughing and joking, but never to hurt anyone! 
[Sighing and resuming her knitting.] 

Mary. 
And you never heard of him, after he ran away? 

Miss Matty. 
Oh, yes! He wrote my mother from his ship! He was 



94 CRANFORD : A PLA^ 

so clever, though only sixteen, we thought he would soon 
be made an Admiral — but we never heard of his getting 
higher than Lieutenant! Then, after my mother's death 
— [She idpes her eyes on her knitting.] — My dear, they say 
mothers spoil their boys — but sometimes a fond mother's 
spoiling is better for a willful lad than a father's well- 
meant severity! [Peter, behind screen, sighs.] What 
was that! — Ah, well, poor Peter! His letters home 
ceased! We heard indirectly that he was in India, or 
that neighbourhood! As my sister Deborah learnedly 
put it, he was surveying mankind from China to Peru — 
for India is between China and Peru if you turn the globe 
to the left, and not the right! — Then there was a rumour 
that Peter had been elected Grand Llama of Thibet! — 
I think that must have been one of his jokes, for I got 
Miss Pole to look it up in the Encyclopedia, and she found 
that a llama is a graminivorous animal! [Peter stifles 
his laughter.] — What was that noise! — You see, my dear, 
in my young days the only use we made of long words 
was to learn how they should be spelt ! [Peter coughs, 
and comes from behind the screen.] Who is that! — Do you 
wish to buy something, sir? 

Peter. 

[Trying to speak without emotion.] Yes — Your entire 
stock-in-trade! Everything! 

Miss Matty. 
But, sir, 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 95 

Peter. 

These sweets — we'll begin with them. We'll give them 
to the children! 

[He opens the window, and empties a jar of comfits 
into the street. Cries of joy are heard from chil- 
dren below.] 

Miss Matty. 

Oh, sir — those almond comfits are unwholesome for the 
little darlings, in excess — Here, Mary, love! Throw these 
ginger and peppermint lozenges to counteract the ill 
effects ! [Mary hands the other jars to Peter, who empties 
them out. The children shout in delight.] 

Miss Matty. 

[Looking at Peter, puzzled.] Eccentric — but evidently 
kind-hearted ! 

Peter. 
Next the tea! I want it all! 

Miss Matty. 
But, sir — the baneful effects of unlimited green tea ! 

Peter. 

I acquired the tea-habit when Grand Llama of Thibet! 
— Besides I intend to settle down in Cranford and turn 
life into a perpetual tea-party! — Don't you know me, 
little sister! 



96 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Matty. 

You're not — Peter — Oh, Peter! [They embrace. Mary 
quietly busies herself tidying the room.] I didn't know you 
at first; Peter — ! 

Peter. 
Ah, well, forty years, you know! 

Miss Matty. 

Yes, I may have changed a bit myself! — But white 
hair is most becoming to you, Peter! 

Miss Pole. 

[Entering breathlessly.] My Lizzy learned from Mar- 
tha 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Entering with dignified speed.] Miss Matilda Jenkyns 
— My Jenny learned from Martha 

Mrs. Fitz-Adam. 

[Bouncing in, enthusiastically.] Oh, my dear Miss 
Matty — Rosy learned from Martha 

Miss Betty. 

[Skimming in, curtseying.] I learn with pleasure, 
madam, from my Peggy who had it from Martha 



CRANFORD: A PLAY 97 

Mks. Jamieson. 

[Entering majestically xoith Carlo.] Mulliner informs 
me 

Lady Glenmire. 
[Dancing in gaily.] Tarn tells me 



[There is a general chorus of handshaking and con- 
gratulation. — Martha brings in tea on a tray, 
and passes it about.' The ladies sit.] 

Peter. 

[Taking a cushion, and sitting crosslegged on the floor.] 
You'll permit me to follow my Oriental habits? 
[The ladies murmur enthusiastic assents.] 

Miss Pole. 

[In an audible whisper.] Isn't he handsome! Just like 
an Arabian Night ! 

Mrs. Jamieson. 

You say that the Himalayas are so high that on their 
summit you shot a Cherub, Mr. Peter? 

Ladies. 
Well, well, to be sure! Shot a Cherub! 

Mrs. Jamieson. 
But, Mr. Peter, don't you think that was sacrilegious? 

6 



98 CRANFORD : A PLAY 

Miss Betty. 
Amen! 

Peter. 

You see at the time I was living among the Heathen, 
who are Dissenters! 

Ladies. 

Well, well! 

Mrs. Jamieson. 
Still— a Cherub 

Lady Glenmire. 
Next ye'll be telling us ye had it stuffed! 

Ladies. 
[Laughing indulgently.] Such spirits! 

Peter. 

I would have; but there was no body to it; only a 
Heavenly Expression! [The ladies applaud.] 

Miss Betty. 

[Impressively.] In the general rejoicing the Honour- 
able Mrs. Jamieson has recognised Mrs. Fitz-Adam and 
become reconciled to her sister-in-law, formerly Lady 
Glenmire, now Mrs. Thomas Hoggins. 



CRANFORD : A PLAY 99 

Mrs. Forrester. 

[Slightly impatient] I beg you do not interrupt Mr. 
Peter Marmaduke Arley Jenkyns! 

Miss Matty. 
And you'll never leave Cranford, Peter! 

Peter. 

Never! As a spot in which' to end one's days I place 
Cranford next to Heaven! 

[The ladies, delighted, say '^Ah!'' and draw their 
chairs in a circle round Peter.] 

Miss Pole. 
A man in Cranford! It will be a great experiment! 

The Other Ladies. 

Sh! Now, Mr. Peter, begin at the beginning! 
[They draw their chairs still closer.^ 

Curtain. s^-^'^' 

End op Plat. » 



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